ScottsMiracle-Gro Pledges $1 Million for White House South Lawn Restoration
A company based in Ohio, led by a supporter of President Trump, has pledged $1 million to restore the South Lawn of the White House after the UFC Freedom 250 event caused damage on Trump's 80th birthday. ScottsMiracle-Gro will provide monetary and product support to the National Park Service for the restoration, including re-sodding the lawn with a special turfgrass blend chosen by Trump. The company aims to have the lawn fully restored by spring of next year.
ScottsMiracle-Gro's chief operating officer mentioned Trump's expertise in grass, particularly from his involvement with golf courses, as they worked together to select the turfgrass blend for the restoration. The White House confirmed that the donation for lawn care is private and will not involve taxpayer funds. The extent of repairs needed for the nearby Ellipse, also damaged during the UFC event, is still uncertain.
The UFC event on the South Lawn was part of the celebrations for America's 250th birthday. Organizers had anticipated damage to the lawn and had budgeted around $700,000 for grass replacement. Recent scrutiny on the condition of the White House grounds has been heightened as the administration undertakes renovation projects in the White House complex and surrounding areas.
Various renovation projects, such as the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and a White House ballroom, have faced criticism for issues like algae bloom and paint chipping shortly after completion. The restoration efforts for the South Lawn and the Ellipse are part of ongoing efforts to maintain the historic grounds of the White House.